Effective Pastoral Leadership: Strategies for Guiding and Advancing Christian Church Organizations in the Post-Pandemic World
Degree Date
12-18-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Education
First Advisor
Dr. Frederick Dressen, Advisor
Second Advisor
Dr. Jana Hennen-Burr
Third Advisor
Dr. Tyrone Brookins
Abstract
According to Gallup’s eight-decade trend, church membership in the United States has steadily declined, dropping below 50% for the first time in 2020, from 73% in 1937 (Jones, 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this trend, highlighting the urgent need for effective pastoral leadership to revitalize church growth (Barna Group, 2020a; Burge, 2020; Fowler et al., 2019). This qualitative study identified effective leadership strategies pastors utilize to guide and advance Christian churches in the post-pandemic world. Online semi-structured interviews were utilized with ten pastors from Protestant Christian churches of diverse denominational backgrounds in the suburban areas of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. This research study examined leadership through the lenses of governance, management, and operations and identified recommendations aimed specifically at different leadership positions within the church organization, ensuring that everyone is aligned and committed to the common goals. To synthesize, integrate, and further define the study's leadership work, Powdrill’s Leadership Framework was introduced. By integrating the research findings and recommendations into the framework, the identification of an ideal and universally applicable leadership personality profile emerged via Powdrill’s Leadership Framework in Action. The key findings of the study addressed leadership and change management, adaptation and innovation, health and well-being, engagement and mission, personnel and financial management, and leadership training and development. The top recommendations from this study include the need to develop and implement policies for inclusive decision-making and clear communication; invest in technology and train for online and hybrid services; seek out ways to engage community and collaborate; prioritize mental health support and well-being initiatives; explore alternative revenue streams to ensure financial transparency; integrate practical leadership skills training into formal theological education; and emphasize continuous leadership training and development. These themes provide a comprehensive framework for effective leadership that addresses both spiritual and practical needs, ensuring the sustainability and growth of church communities. The findings also underscore the necessity of continuous learning and professional development for organizational leaders, as well as the integration of practical leadership skills into formal education. These strategies are essential for fostering resilient and adaptive church communities in the post-pandemic era.